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Top Attractions in Kandy

With the city located in Central Sri Lanka, it is enclaved by mountains and tea plantations, which contribute to its very calm atmosphere. It is also well-known for its sacred Buddhist sites making it a popular city for tourists. The attractions in Kandy therefore range from natural landscapes to traditionally and culturally rich spots. Here’s some of our top picks.

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Temple of the Tooth

Must-see attractions in Kandy 1

The temple is a World Heritage site and is one of the most important attractions in Kandy. Located within the royal palace complex of Kandy, you definitely cannot miss it. No trip to Kandy is complete without a visit to this temple.

Known to hold the legendary Buddha Tooth, many visitors flock to the temple to also admire the amazing architecture and its golden fences. Make your way through with your local guide, who will show you the heavily guarded shrine where the Tooth is kept. Listen to the chanting of the monks which take place thrice a day and you could experience it too by timing your visit here.

Kandy Garrison Cemetery

Must-see attractions in Kandy 2

Unlike other cemeteries the very setting of this whole area makes it a very unique attraction in Kandy. It is surrounded by a charming atmosphere with old tombstones placed to mark the graves. Getting to this cemetery requires a short hike up a hill behind the National Museum.

Here lie the British nationals who were in the island during the Colonial Rule. You’ll hear some very interesting stories from your local guide about the people buried here. Its history is sure to leave you very captivated. Your private guide will show you around this very unique Kandy attraction, let your inquisitive mind wander over this fascinating attraction in Kandy.

Degaldoruwa Raja Maha Viharaya

Must-see attractions in Kandy 3

Located in the outskirts of Kandy, this very charming little cave temple is an 18th century masterpiece and is famous for its magnificently decorated walls. Anyone with a curious mind is going to love this Kandy attraction!

The temple is believed to have been carved out of a forty-feet rock. You are very likely to lose track of time as you explore the interiors of the temple. The walls comprise of very elaborative Kandyan art which your local guide will explain the inspiration behind them. They will also take you to the different sections of the temple showing you what each of them represents.

International Buddhist Museum

Must-see attractions in Kandy 4

Interested to know the entire history of Buddhism? Then this attraction in Kandy is just for you! Get your local guide to add it your personalized tour. It demonstrates the spread of Buddhism throughout Asia and has separate rooms dedicated to each country.

Walk through the gallery and the enormous statues, as your local guide explains everything you need to know including information that is not showcased in the museum. The museum is located next to the Temple of the Tooth making it very convenient to visit this Kandy attraction.

Royal Botanical Garden

Must-see attractions in Kandy 5

This botanical park is home to one of the most beautiful species of plants and flowers. It is surely one of the best attractions in Kandy where you could sit back and relax after a long and tiring day. Bring some snacks along with your family and friends to have an open-air picnic and enjoy the very scenic surroundings too.

The Royal Botanical Garden is very well known for its collection of orchids, so make sure you get your local guide to show you around. Walk around the beautiful luscious bamboo forests to truly connect with nature. All this amidst the bustling city of Kandy! You will definitely not regret your time here!

Udawattekele Wildlife Sanctuary

Must-see attractions in Kandy 6

Visit the beautiful and scenic attraction in Kandy right in the middle of the busy city of Kandy. You’ll be amazed at how you find such a vast nature park just a few meters away from the city center. Notice the striking contrast as you enter the park while you trek through the wildlife sanctuary.

With its thick vegetation, you will be able to see first-hand how this forest provides the much needed air purification for the city of Kandy. It’s enclosed by several hills and you’re surely going to find several spots to capture some beautiful pictures. It is also rich with distinct species of trees, which your local guide should be able to show you and explain each one of them if you’re interested.

Bahiravokanda Vihara Buddha Statue

Must-see attractions in Kandy 7

This Kandy attraction showcases some of the best views of the entire town. Something that you cannot obviously miss is the 88 ft. high statue of Buddha, which can be seen from any part of the city. It is an attraction definitely not to be missed.

Local tip: Go there during the night when it is lit up by lamp. This makes it look more charming and scenic. Alternatively, the best time to visit would be either during dawn or dusk. Let your private guide know so they can add it to your personal itinerary. Loved the place so much? Why not grab a souvenir from the shop located close to the statue?

This is what guests are saying about our hosts

All About Curry - Private Cooking class

Manoshi was a great cookery teacher. I loved the private one on one class, as I got to be involved with all the preparation and cooking. The dishes we made were veggie friendly and some of the best I tasted in all my trip in Sri Lanka.

She organised a pick up and drop off from my hotel, making it easy for me as a traveller. The venue of the cookery class is well equipped and spacious.

The ingredients were all laid out beautifully, and she packed up leftovers for me at the end.

All About Curry - Private Cooking class

We had a great time doing it our cookery class with Manoshi. Clear instructions and an interactive experience, not just watching! Amazing smells and tastes, we loved the dishes she showed us. Now we have the recipes, will definitely try them at home.Thank you so much Manoshi.

Hike the Adam's Peak and Catch the Sunrise

We made a trip from Kandy to the Adams Peak. He showed us not just the Adams Peak. We discovered a few other areas like a Tea Factory, went river rafting and he also told us much about sri lankan culture and animals! We liked it very much! We hardly recommend this guy to all people how want to explore sri lanka with a private guide!